Lesson made on January 17, 2025
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Reading Lesson:
Brazil’s president has signed a law to limit smartphone use in schools, starting in February. This rule will apply to elementary and high schools across the country. Phones will only be allowed in emergencies, for educational activities, or for students with disabilities. The goal is to help students focus better and reduce distractions caused by phones.
Officials explained that children are using the internet at younger ages, which makes it harder for parents to monitor them. Limiting smartphones at school can help students concentrate on studying. A recent survey found that nearly two-thirds of Brazilians support banning smartphones in schools, and over three-quarters believe these devices are harmful for kids.
Some families and students agree with the move, saying it will encourage more interaction and help classmates focus better. However, others believe it won’t solve all school issues, like bullying and harassment.
As of 2023, about two-thirds of Brazilian schools already limit smartphone use, while 28% ban them completely. Some states, such as Rio de Janeiro and Goias, have passed local laws restricting phones in schools, but enforcement has been challenging. In Sao Paulo, discussions are ongoing about banning phones in both public and private schools.
Globally, concerns about smartphone use among children have led to similar measures. Countries like China, France, and parts of the U.S. have introduced restrictions to reduce distractions and protect children’s mental health. A report from UNESCO found that one in four countries has already limited smartphone use in schools.
Comprehension Questions:
Speaking and Writing Activities:
– Discuss these questions with a partner or a small group.
– Choose one topic and write a response to it. Show your writing to a classmate or teacher.
1. What are the pros and cons of banning phones in schools? Do you think phones should be banned?
2. What do you like to use your smartphone for? How many hours do you use it each day?
3. What would your life be like if you didn’t have a smartphone for one week? What would you do instead?
More Reading Practice:
Are smartphones addictive?
Smartphones can be addictive for some people. Addiction happens when someone feels like they need to use something all the time, even if it causes problems in their life. Smartphones are designed to grab your attention with notifications, apps, and games. These features can make it hard to put the phone down.
Using a smartphone too much can affect your health and relationships. For example, spending hours on a phone might lead to less sleep, sore eyes, or even stress. It can also take time away from talking to family or friends face-to-face.
Scientists say that the brain releases a chemical called dopamine when you do something enjoyable, like using a phone. This can make you want to check your phone more often. Over time, it may become a habit that’s hard to control.
To avoid these problems, it’s important to take breaks from screens and focus on other activities, like reading, exercising, or spending time outside. By using smartphones responsibly, people can enjoy the benefits of technology without letting it take over their lives.
How does dopamine work?
Dopamine is a chemical in your brain that helps send messages between nerve cells. It plays a big role in how you feel and what you do. When something makes you happy, like eating your favorite food or achieving a goal, your brain releases dopamine. This release creates a feeling of pleasure or reward.
Dopamine is important because it helps you learn what activities are enjoyable or useful. For example, when you feel good after finishing a project or exercising, dopamine encourages you to repeat those actions in the future. It also helps with motivation by making you want to work toward things that bring positive feelings.
However, too much or too little dopamine can cause problems. When there’s too much dopamine, people may focus too much on rewards, which can lead to unhealthy habits. On the other hand, low dopamine levels can make it hard to feel motivated or enjoy activities. This is sometimes linked to conditions like depression or Parkinson’s disease.
Your brain naturally balances dopamine, but taking care of your physical and mental health, such as eating well, sleeping enough, and exercising regularly, can support healthy dopamine levels.
How can I reduce my smartphone use?
Reducing smartphone use can help you focus on other activities and feel more in control of your time. To start, you can set clear limits for yourself. Decide how many hours you want to spend on your phone each day, and try to follow this plan. Many smartphones have settings that can track your screen time or remind you when you’ve used certain apps for too long.
Creating phone-free times during the day can also make a big difference. For example, you could avoid using your phone during meals or before going to bed. This gives your mind a chance to relax and helps you focus on other things, like talking to family or getting better sleep.
Turning off unnecessary notifications can reduce distractions. When your phone doesn’t buzz or light up all the time, you’ll be less tempted to pick it up. Another helpful tip is to keep your phone in a different room while you work or study. This way, you won’t feel the urge to check it as often.
Finally, replacing some phone time with other activities can help you break the habit. You might choose to exercise, read, or spend time outdoors. Finding new hobbies or ways to connect with friends in person can also make it easier to spend less time on your phone.
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